Blind Tiger Portland – Danforth Street

Much more than an apartment share, though certainly not just an ordinary hotel, Blind Tiger Guest House takes its name from the Prohibition-era speakeasy that once occupied the basement of this lovely 19th-century house. Built in 1823, converted into an inn in 1993, it’s fresh off a 2020 renovation by Northeast boutique-hotel specialists Lark Hotels, and the brand’s signature attributes are very much in evidence here: photogenic interiors, luxe comforts, a convivial atmosphere, and a location in a vibrant and walkable corner of town.

The house’s nine rooms retain 19th-century architectural elements, and are updated with contemporary colors and artwork; almost all of them come with wood-burning fireplaces, and while the look is residential, the comforts are very much up to boutique-hotel standards — kimono-style robes and bath products by Lather rank among the finer details. That basement speakeasy is now a billiards room, and the social life, a century after Prohibition, is no longer confined to underground; a light breakfast is served in the pantry, and coffee, tea, and light snacks are available all day long. Meanwhile, restaurants are plentiful in the surrounding neighborhood, and the house’s concierge has recommendations at the ready.